lake macquarie yacht cruises

SAIL LAKE MACQUARIE YACHT CHARTERS

Select a Cruise Package

Private Yacht Charter Package

Frequently asked questions, about the cruise, where do we visit on our cruise or private charter.

The Captain will decide the sailing route on the day taking into account weather conditions and wind direction. Guests comfort and safety are our top priority. Cruises begin and end at Trinity Point Marina.

Can I bring children on the Cruise or Private Charter?

Yes children are welcome aboard, they must be accompanied by an adult and supervised at all times.

WHAT SHOULD I BRING

What should i bring.

Comfortable clothing, sunglasses, hat, sunscreen and a jacket if its cool. We have a no shoes policy on board so easily removable footwear is advised as you will be asked to take your shoes off before boarding.

Can I wear shoes?

No shoes permitted on board the vessel. We will ask you to remove footwear before boarding. We provide a basket to store guests shoes away whilst onboard.

GENERAL ADMIN

Where do you pick up from.

Pickup is Exclusively from Trinity Point Marina.

81 Trinity Point Drive, Morisset Park , NSW, 2264, Australia.

90 minutes from Sydney, 40 minutes from Newcastle & 8 minutes from Morisset Train Station.

Unfortunately we cannot pick up at any other locations on the lake. Sailing Vessel MR is a large deep drafted vessel and no public wharfs can facilitate us docking in the lake.

Is there parking available?

Yes. There is a car park next to Trinity Point Marina and another car park beside 8 at Trinity restaurant.

Can I bring my own alcohol?

Sail Lake Macquarie is a licensed venue. Our Cruises and Yacht Charters have wine and beer included.

If you wish to bring your own beverages that is okay. However no hard spirits or red wine are permitted onboard.

We adhere to NSW Liquor and gaming Responsibility Service of Alcohol for your safety. 

Can I smoke onboard?

No. There is no smoking permitted onboard the vessel.

Can I bring my own food?

Our Cruises and Privater Yacht Charters include a grazing board which consists of a mix of such foods as breads and crackers, meats, cheeses, fruit, nuts and dip.

If you wish to bring your own food onboard this is okay.

However no overly greasy food allowed on board, due to oil staining of teak decks .

Where do we meet?

Captain and Crew will meet you on the bridge at Trinity Point Marina.

Please arrive 10 minutes before scheduled departure time.

What happens if it rains?

We are not fair-weather sailors and will sail even if there's a little rain. 

If there is forcast incremental weather we will call you the day before your charter. The forcast can change so much days out, so we leave it till the afernoon before to ensure we are working off the most accurate forcast. The Captain will decide if we can proceed with the charter. In the event of the charter being cancelled by the Captain we will offer to reschedule to an agreed upon date, turn the order into a gift card for you to rebook at your leasure, or provide a full refund.

ABOUT YOU & YOUR GROUP

Is the boat suitable for the elderly or people with difficulty walking.

If they can walk up a couple of stairs with assistance, then yes and we can make them very comfortable on board. 

Unfortunately we do not have wheelchair access.

ABOUT CATERING

Can special dietary requirements be accommodated.

Yes in the majority of cases, although notice is required. Please advise at time of booking or contact us to discuss your needs.

Call 0478 677 558

Blue Water Sailing

We offer exquisite cruises of Port Stephens in our luxury yacht Champagne on Ice

Steve and Shelley have been sailing together for over 37 years, having started out buying a 16-foot trailer sailer with a hole in its hull. They repaired the boat and taught themselves how to sail dodging coal ships in Gladstone Harbour (Queensland) and running into every sandbank in Port Curtis! They’ve been sailing ever since and were even engaged and married on boats.

‘ Champagne on Ice ‘ is a Beneteau Oceanis 46 sailing vessel. Built in France, she is fast, modern, comfortable, and safe.

Steve holds a Bachelor of Science and is a Master V captain and MED III. Shelley is a geographer and scientist with a first class Honours degree, Masters and PhD (her research includes past sea level change along the Great Barrier Reef and the conservation of dolphins and sea turtles in Lake Macquarie). She is the founder of the Women Who Sail Australia group and editor of a sailing magazine for women.

Steve and Shelley enjoy sharing their passion for the marine environment and boats with guests aboard ‘Champagne on Ice’. 

Our Cruises

Cruise packages.

Whether you’re after a family day out, romantic escape, or corporate group outing, step aboard our luxury yacht ‘ Champagne on Ice ‘ at the Anchorage Marina, Corlette Point, located 2½ hours north of Sydney, and sail Port Stephens in style.

Harbour Sail

• 95pp (min. 4 people)
• 125pp (min. 2 people)

Join our luxury yacht exploring the sheltered waterways of Port Stephens, and discovering dolphins, sea turtles, and sea birds along the way.

Learn to Sail

• 110pp (min. 4 people)*
• 175pp (min. 2 people)

An introduction to sailing from our experienced and friendly crew. The crew will talk you through some of the basic skills and concepts of sailing before letting you take the helm and work the winches.

*Beginners welcome!

Breakfast Cruise

• 190pp (min. 2 people)

Start the day with a relaxing cruise, soak up the views while enjoying mimosas and a delicious breakfast platter.

Luncheon Sail

• 290pp (min. 4 people)
• 350pp (min. 2 people)

Enjoy a mid-day sail to one of many white-sand beaches or secluded coves. Plunge into the crystal-clear blue water.

Luncheon menu includes freshly shucked oysters, fresh local lobster, and prawns. (Other options include gourmet grazing platters. Vegetarian also available). Wine or beer included.

Sunset Cruise

Cruise to a secluded cove where we drop anchor and relax with a glass of bubbly, some cheese, and the freshest of the Port’s oysters as the light turns golden.

Exclusive Charters

• 900 (2 hours)
• 1000 (3 hours)
• 1100 (4 hours)

The only thing better than being aboard a Blue Water Sailing cruise, is having the yacht all to yourself!

Exclusive charters give you the option of booking the boat for just two of you, a corporate or other small group, or a family. Exclusive cruises can visit all the same wonderful attractions as our regular cruises. Our private charters are skippered and crewed by our experienced and friendly team so you can be perfectly relaxed.

Catering options and beverages available on request.

Special Occasions

Proposals and weddings.

‘ Champagne on Ice ‘ is known as the queen of romance! Let us arrange a memorable cruise for your proposal or your wedding day. Picturesque Port Stephens is a stunning backdrop for a lifetime of memories and our luxury yacht is the perfect vessel for your special occasion.

Happy Customers

Testimonials, your hospitality was amazing and the trip, including food, amazing, great company and superb food., we’ll definitely be back., the perfect evening to celebrate a birthday., can’t wait to experience this again., a wonderful experience, great boat in great condition., lovely breakfast with exceptional hosts., thanks so much 10/10., thank you for taking us out, very, very special., it was insane, we will be back, thank you for the perfect sunset adventure., most enjoyable cruise we have been on., perfect anniversary cruise, the most enjoyable, relaxing experience., beautiful staff, loved every minute., most wonderful sailing experience..

Our Associates

The anchorage.

Overlooking the Anchorage Marina, The Anchorage is a boutique resort offering luxury seaside accommodation in the beautiful New South Wales region of Nelson Bay, Port Stephens.

Night Jar Photography

Port Stephens family and wedding photographer.

Muse Photography

Muse by Teresa is an East Coast-based photography studio available for projects throughout Australia and New Zealand.

Sage Marketing Group

The creators of the Blue Water Sailing website.

The Bay Butler

Servicing exclusively on the Tomaree Peninsula. Areas include Nelson Bay, Shoal Bay, Fingal Bay, Corlette, Soldiers Point and Anna Bay. The Bay Butler family offer a full butler service including food and beverage delivery, grocery click & collect, ticket purchase, dinner reservations, itinerary planning, nanny service, bespoke offerings to take your holiday to the next level, without lifting a finger. The Bay Butler is at your service.

Nelson Bay Fish Market

Nelson Bay Fish Market is a family owned and locally operated business supplying fresh seafood to Port Stephens residents and visitors.

Enquire Now

Fill in our form or call 0448 111 331

The Worimi peoples are acknowledged by Blue Water Sailing as the Traditional Custodians of the land and waters situated within the Port Stephens area, including wetlands, rivers creeks and coastal environments. It is known that their heritage and cultural ties to this area date back tens of thousands of years.

• Things to do
• Water activities

Boating and cruising

Take command of the helm when you hire a runabout, day boat or pontoon boat from Lake Mac Watersports at Cams Wharf or an open or enclosed day boat from Top of the Lake Boat Hire at Marmong Point. Extend your stay on the water by booking a houseboat from Lake Macquarie Houseboats in Kilaben Bay, outside Toronto.

Enjoy the thrill of discovery as you motor to the lake’s hidden waterways on a Loop the Lake cruise from Booragul with Lake Macquarie Cruises , which also offers Lunch on the Lake and Sunset Dinner tours. Get the adrenaline pumping on a jet-boat joy ride with  JetBuzz Watersports  at Cams Wharf, or join CoastXP for a breathtaking coastal experience along Lake Macquarie shores.

Get the official boating app for Lake Macquarie Deckee. The free boating app helps you plan, prepare and enjoy your water activities safely.

Download Deckee for free: deckee.com/download

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• Bucks Cruise Melbourne
• Hens Parties

Lake Macquarie Yacht Charters

Hens party cruises are our specialty.

Sail beautiful Lake Macquarie on Yesdear a Luxury Beneteau 47 foot yacht and let our Skipper & Hostess look after you.

Enjoy an afternoon sailing beautiful Lake Macquarie aboard in luxury for your Hens Party which is licensed for up to 22 passengers and 2 crew.

See the sights of our largest saltwater Lake and the exhilaration of sailing with the security of a Master 5 skipper with over 18 years experience.

Up to 44 of your girlfriends on two yachts, or with 3 vessels up to a maximum of 55 passengers all that this wonderful water playground has to offer.

BYO Drinks only.

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Opening Hours

• Monday 09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
• Tuesday 09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
• Wednesday 09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
• Thursday 09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
• Friday 09:00 AM - 05:00 PM

( Lake Macquarie Yacht Charters )

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Love the Lake, Love Lake Mac Cruises!

Phone: 02 4044 7000 e-mail: [email protected].

Loop the Lake Cruise

Regular departures Weekends with additional cruises operating midweek. Check schedule for current departure dates

Boarding at Booragul Public Wharf, Behind Lake Mac Art gallery, First St Booragul.

Adults $95– Concession $90 – Child (up to 17yrs) $65

Allow us to take you to the hidden waters of beautiful Lake Macquarie. Step aboard the “M.V. Lady Mac” to cruise the largest salt water lake in the Southern Hemisphere and experience the fabulous scenery and wildlife the lake has to offer.

Departing Booragul, enjoy Devonshire morning tea as you cruise the eastern side of Lake Macquarie. Leave the most populated suburbs in your wake as we round Pulbah Island Nature Reserve sighting the distant bays and conservation areas at the bottom of the lake. If conditions permit we pick up a mooring in this secluded location whilst we stop for lunch.

Indulge in a freshly prepared BBQ lunch served on board the vessel consisting of fresh local prawns, scotch fillet minute steak, gourmet beef sausages with a selection of salads to compliment. Enjoy a selection of light sweets for dessert with complimentary tea & coffee or select from a full range of drinks available to purchase from our fully licensed bar.

Purchase Tickets / Online Bookings

Purchase gift vouchers, redeem gift voucher, scheduled cruise brochure, private charters brochure, drinks menu, lake macquarie cruises, you can reach us at.

Newcastle: Lake Macquarie Cruise With Lunch

Set out on a leisurely voyage aboard the Newcastle: Lake Macquarie Cruise With Lunch, a serene exploration of the stunning waters surrounding New South Wales. Guests are welcomed with open arms at Booragul Public Wharf , where a delightful journey awaits.

Indulge in a delectable BBQ buffet lunch filled with local flavors while basking in the panoramic views. Stay tuned to discover the hidden gems and intriguing tales that make this cruise an unforgettable escapade into the heart of Lake Macquarie.

• Enjoy a 2.5-hour scenic cruise with a BBQ buffet lunch.
• Experience stunning views of Lake Macquarie and indulge in local cuisine .
• Benefit from live commentary on landmarks and a welcoming crew atmosphere.
• Convenient boarding at Booragul Public Wharf with nearby amenities and parking.

It's also worth checking out some other tours and experiences nearby.

• Loop the Lake Cruise
• Newscastle: Australian Tree Ropes Course Adventure
• Port Stephens: Private Day Tour, From Newcastle – Dolphins!
• From Newcastle: Hunter Valley Beer & Wine Group Tour

Tour Details

The tour details for the Newcastle: Lake Macquarie Cruise with Lunch include pricing starting from $46.26 per person for a 2.5-hour scenic cruise experience likely to sell out. This price offers excellent value when compared to similar tours in the area, making it an affordable option for those looking to explore Lake Macquarie.

One standout feature of this cruise is the opportunity to indulge in delicious local cuisine , with a BBQ buffet lunch featuring fresh prawns and other regional delights. Guests can savor the flavors of the area while taking in the stunning views from the boat.

For foodies or those looking to experience the tastes of Lake Macquarie, this cruise provides a perfect blend of sightseeing and culinary adventure.

Embarking on the Lake Macquarie Cruise with Lunch promises a delightful blend of scenic exploration and culinary indulgence. As the cruise glides through the tranquil waters of Lake Macquarie, passengers are treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes, creating a relaxing cruise ambiance .

The experience is enhanced by the delicious BBQ buffet lunch featuring fresh local prawns and a delectable dessert, showcasing the best of the region’s local cuisine. Along the way, guests can enjoy live commentary on local landmarks, adding an informative touch to the journey.

The friendly crew ensures a welcoming atmosphere, making this cruise a perfect choice for those looking to unwind while savoring the flavors of Lake Macquarie.

Cruising along the serene waters of Lake Macquarie offers a delightful journey filled with scenic beauty and culinary delights .

Scenic Views : Passengers will be treated to breathtaking vistas of the tranquil lake, surrounded by lush greenery and picturesque landscapes.

Culinary Delights : Indulge in a delicious BBQ buffet lunch featuring fresh local prawns, a variety of mouth-watering dishes, and delectable desserts.

Live Commentary: Learn about the history and significance of the local landmarks as knowledgeable guides provide informative and engaging commentary throughout the cruise.

Embark on this unforgettable experience, where you can feast your eyes on stunning scenery while satisfying your taste buds with a sumptuous meal.

Discover the array of inclusions awaiting you on the Lake Macquarie Cruise with Lunch, promising a delightful journey filled with culinary delights and informative commentary. Theres some good a freshly prepared buffet lunch featuring local prawns, along with a delectable plated dessert. Throughout the cruise, informative live commentary will enrich the experience, providing insights into the local landmarks and history. Plus, complimentary tea and coffee will be available to enhance relaxation and enjoyment onboard. For those looking to elevate their experience further, there is a selection of alcoholic beverages, soft drinks , and juices available for purchase. This diverse range of food options and beverage choices ensures that every guest’s palate is catered to, making the cruise a memorable dining experience.

Meeting Point

Upon arrival at the meeting point for the Lake Macquarie Cruise with Lunch, visitors will find themselves at Booragul Public Wharf on First Street in Booragul. This picturesque location sets the stage for an enjoyable maritime adventure. Here’s what visitors can expect at the meeting point:

Booragul Public Wharf: A charming and easily accessible location for boarding the cruise.

Scenic Views : The wharf offers stunning views of Lake Macquarie, creating a serene backdrop for the start of the journey.

Convenient Amenities: Visitors will find facilities like restrooms, seating areas , and nearby parking , ensuring a comfortable experience before embarking on the scenic cruise.

The meeting point at Booragul Public Wharf promises a delightful start to the Lake Macquarie Cruise adventure.

Customer Reviews

Visitors to the Lake Macquarie Cruise with Lunch can gain valuable insights from the customer reviews, which reflect an overall rating of 4.7/5 based on 15 reviews. Customers consistently rated transportation and value for money at a perfect 5/5.

The reviews highlight the high level of customer satisfaction with the tour experience. Many guests praised the affordable pricing in comparison to similar offerings in the area. The positive feedback indicates that customers found the cruise to be a great value for the price, with excellent service and enjoyable amenities.

These reviews showcase a pattern of satisfaction with the overall experience, making this cruise a highly recommended choice for those looking to explore Lake Macquarie.

For those planning to embark on the Lake Macquarie Cruise with Lunch, the meeting point is at Booragul Public Wharf located on First Street in Booragul. When heading to the wharf, visitors can consider the following:

Booragul Wharf : Easily identifiable by its signage and the presence of boats docked nearby.

Parking Options : Visitors driving to the wharf can utilize the designated parking areas along First Street or surrounding streets. It’s advisable to arrive a bit early to secure a parking spot, especially during peak times.

Accessibility: The wharf is wheelchair accessible, ensuring that all guests can comfortably board the cruise.

Attendees are encouraged to follow signage and instructions for a smooth and enjoyable experience.

To wrap up the Lake Macquarie Cruise with Lunch experience, guests can anticipate a memorable conclusion that leaves them with lasting impressions of the scenic beauty and culinary delights enjoyed on the voyage.

The cruise offers a perfect blend of relaxation, delicious food , and captivating commentary on local landmarks.

As the journey comes to an end, passengers can reflect on the scenic views of Lake Macquarie, the savory BBQ buffet lunch featuring fresh local prawns, and the delightful plated dessert.

The friendly crew ensures a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere throughout the 2.5-hour excursion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a vegetarian or vegan option available for the bbq buffet lunch.

Yes, there are vegetarian options and vegan alternatives available for the BBQ buffet lunch on the cruise. Guests can enjoy delicious plant-based dishes alongside fresh local prawns and dessert. The crew ensures a variety of dietary preferences are catered to.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Passengers on the Cruise?

Age restrictions do not apply to passengers on the cruise. For dietary options , the cruise offers a delicious BBQ buffet lunch with vegetarian and vegan choices available upon request. Guests can enjoy a scenic tour and culinary delights.

Can Guests Bring Their Own Snacks or Drinks Onboard?

Guests cannot bring their own snacks or drinks onboard. The cruise offers a delicious BBQ buffet lunch with menu options suitable for various dietary restrictions . Alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, and juices are available for purchase on the boat.

Is There Onboard Entertainment During the Cruise?

Onboard, guests can enjoy live music , dancing , and even a comedy show. The cruise offers a variety of entertainment options, including games to keep everyone engaged and entertained throughout the scenic journey on Lake Macquarie.

Are There Restroom Facilities Available on the Cruise Boat?

Restroom facilities are available onboard for convenience. The cruise also provides accessibility options. Guests can enjoy the journey comfortably with these amenities in place, ensuring a pleasant experience for all passengers throughout the scenic tour.

Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby

• Port Stephens: Stockton Sand Dunes 4WD Tag-Along Tour
• Newcastle: Boutique Hunter Valley Wine Tour
• Newcastle: Bimbadgen Lunch Tour With Helicopter Transfers
• Newcastle: True Crime Guided Walking Tour
• From Newcastle: Hunter Valley Brewery Tour With Lunch
• Newcastle: Varietal Spirit Tasting at Earp Distilling Co
• Country Towns, Rivers & an Aussie Farm. Departing Newcastle.
• Private Hunter Valley Wine Tour Departing From Newcastle
• Newcastle: Humpback Whale Watching Cruise and Harbor Tour
• Newcastle: Tandem Beach Skydive With Optional Transfers
• Newcastle: Small Group Humpback Whale Encounter Tour
• Port Stephens Day Tour, Departing Newcastle
• Maitlands True Crime Tour
• Coastal 2.5-Hour Adventure Boat Tour From Newcastle
• Newcastle: Hunter Valley Wine, Gin, Cheese & Chocolate Tour

Experience the beauty of Lake Macquarie in style with the Newcastle: Lake Macquarie Cruise With Lunch.

Indulge in a delicious BBQ buffet, soak in the scenic views, and learn about the area’s landmarks with live commentary.

This immersive experience offers a perfect blend of relaxation, culinary delights, and informative insights.

Don’t miss out on this delightful journey through the picturesque waters of Lake Macquarie – book your cruise today!

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Uttarakhand Minister Satpal Maharaj's Son Withdraws Cruise Boat Tender Amid Controversy

Uttarakhand tourism minister satpal maharaj has requested his son, suyash rawat, to withdraw his application for a tender to operate a cruise boat on tehri lake after a controversy. maharaj emphasized that transparency was maintained throughout the application process, but made the decision to maintain political probity..

Uttarakhand Tourism Minister Satpal Maharaj announced that he has asked his son, Suyash Rawat, to withdraw his application for a tender to operate a cruise boat on Tehri lake amid controversy.

Rawat was one of six candidates chosen by the Tehri Special Area Tourism Development Authority (TADA) for the tender, which is under the tourism department's jurisdiction. Despite the transparency of the process, Maharaj decided on the withdrawal to prevent any perception of bias.

Inspired by the recent investors' summit, Suyash Rawat had applied to operate a cruise boat to contribute to state development. Maharaj cited Prime Minister Narendra Modi's ethos of political purity in his decision to avoid any accusatory allegations.

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Outstanding Orlando Boat Tours (2024)

Orlando boat tours are a fantastic activity in Central Florida, no matter the type of boating adventure you choose.

Some of the suggestions below are full-day tours, and others take mere hours. But all are a great way to spend your time in order to enjoy the Sunshine State’s beautiful scenery. And that could mean a wild ride in the Everglades or sailing sunset cruises on one of the Orlando area's attractive lakes.

We are sharing the best Orlando boat tours – private and group options – including scenic pontoon boat tours, airboat rides, kayaking, canoeing, sunset sails, and even boat rentals at Walt Disney World.

Disclosure: This post has affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission if you click the link and proceed with a purchase at no cost to you. We recommend experiences, hotels, products, and services we use and support. As Amazon Associates, we earn from qualifying purchases.

• Book a sunset sailing tour in Orlando . It's our favorite type of boat tour, and Florida sunsets often show off for an audience!
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• See what to bring for Orlando boat tours so you are prepared to deal with the Florida bugs!

Orlando Airboat Rides 

One of the things Florida is most known for is its famous airboat tours. Sign up for this fun adventure whether you’re in Fort Lauderdale or Miami, within Everglades National Park, or Orlando on Shingle Creek, on the headwaters of the Florida Everglades. 

You won’t soon forget an exciting airboat ride when you visit the Orlando area, with a chance to see Bald Eagles and other endemic tropical birds, alligators, and crocodiles (maybe even a baby alligator). 

Airboat rides are particularly popular amongst nature lovers. These special boats allow you to glide on the unique marshes and swampland of the Central Florida area. We thoroughly enjoyed our Florida airboat experience. 

Sign up for a 90-minute fun and educational Orlando airboat tour to encounter the real Florida with experienced captains. Alternatively, secure your spot for a 1-hour sunset airboat tour and hope for one of Florida’s famous colorful sunsets. 

Most airboat tours take place rain or shine. Just in case, we recommend traveling to Florida with a poncho or thin raincoat of some sort. Be sure to check in for your tour at least 30 minutes before the experience. 

Orlando Boat Tour on an Airboat with Transportation

This tour includes pick up and drop off in Central Florida (including designated Disney World and Universal hotels), a BBQ lunch, a printed photo, and admission to their animal rescue Wildlife Park, where you can see birds, big cats, and reptiles. 

The entire experience – from transportation to the boat ride – lasts around 7 hours, including the drive to and from the Everglades area. The Florida Everglades are approximately 45 minutes to an hour's drive each way from Orlando. Choose from a 30-minute or 60-minute airboat ride when you book your experience . 

Orlando Sailing Tours 

How about enjoying Orlando’s lakes with wind power? Sailing tours are the perfect way to glide on the water. And a sunset sail is incredibly romantic, to boot! 

Private Morning Sail 

Set sail on a 2-hour private sailing tour, starting at 10:00 am. Adventure awaits on Lake Fairview for up to four guests. 

This area is just north of College Park near downtown Orlando and 15 minutes from Orlando’s Lieu Gardens. Don’t forget to bring towels if you want, though water is provided (and lakes are calm anyway, so you shouldn’t really get wet!).

Advanced reservations are required.

Private Lake Sunset Sail 

Sail on Lake Fairview, approximately 10 minutes from downtown Orlando, 30-35 minutes from the Disney theme parks (including the Disney Springs area), and 25 minutes from Universal. 

This 2-hour private Orlando boat tour can fit up to four people, and they allow you to bring your own snacks and beverages onboard. We recommend bringing a bottle of wine or champagne! 

We recommend bringing along a wine tumbler set for your sailboat adventure! 

Kayaking Tours

Connect with nature from the comfort of a kayak and get in some exercise too. Orlando boat tour options for kayaking are plentiful. 

Kayak with Manatees

Head 45 minutes north of Orlando for your chance to kayak with manatees! These cute and friendly mammals are famous in the Sunshine State, where they come to enjoy the warm water for the winter. 

Whether you’re a novice kayaking trying it for the first time, or an experienced pro, this tour is for you if you want to see a plethora of wildlife. 

Check out this popular tour with 5-star reviews

Glass Bottom Boat Kayak Tours

If you want to see the fish below the water’s surface without snorkeling, sign up for a glass-bottom kayak tour. See through the bottom of the boat on this Orlando boat tour and have the chance to view the colorful fish and marine plant life beneath you. 

Try a Rock Springs guided kayak eco-tour as you glide on the crystal-clear water for two hours. You’ll learn about the local ecosystem, stop for photos, and have the opportunity to swim in the springs. Opt to jump into the water from a rope swing for a thrill during this adventure. 

You can also opt for a sunset tour in a glass-bottom kayak . Paddle through the Winter Park Chain of Lakes and canals in a peaceful setting. Your knowledgeable guide will point out interesting nature homes along the way and share some history of the area. You’ll also be able to stop for photos where you like! 

This tour is likely to sell out: Reserve Now

Winter Park Evening Clear Kayak Glow in the Dark Tour

If you want to add a fun element to your kayaking adventure, sign up for a Winter Park kayak tour at night with a glow-in-the-dark kayak. The boats are illuminated with nighttime lighting!

They will surely be a good photo opp and fun outing as the lights make the water beneath you glow. 

Another great option is this Neon Night Glow Paddleboard or Clear Kayak experience on Lake Ivanhoe.

This unique boat tour allows you to see Orlando’s skyline at night as you paddle along with the help of your guides, the moonlight, and the colorful lights beneath your kayak or paddleboard.  

Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour

One of our favorite Orlando boat tours is in Winter Park. It was established in the 1930s, decades before Walt Disney World opened in Lake Buena Vista.

This pontoon boat tour starts near the well-known Park Avenue area. Set out on your scenic cruise from Lake Osceola to the Winter Park Chain of Lakes as your guide takes you through the manmade canals.

Sail past stunning homes in Winter Park, where you will have breathtaking views of the opulent private homes in the area (which is one of the reasons we enjoy the boat tour).

You will have a chance to see wonderful some of Florida’s beautiful birds, like Blue Herons and large cranes, as you travel on several lakes. 

Each boat holds a maximum of 18 passengers. Be sure to bring cash or a check to buy your tickets because credit cards are not accepted. We advise purchasing tickets in the morning on weekends, even if you plan on going later in the day. It’s a very popular tour, and tickets often sell out quickly. 

Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour is closed on Christmas Day. Otherwise, tours leave daily on the hour, starting at 10:00 am. The last tour is at 4:00 pm. 

Day Trip Boat Tours from Orlando

While the Orlando boat tours listed above are within 30 minutes, on average, from Orlando, it’s worth mentioning there are more boat tour options nearby within a 2-hour drive. Here are some additional Central Florida boat tour options. 

Mount Dora Lake Tours

One of our favorite destinations from Central Florida is 45 minutes north: the quaint town of Mount Dora . There’s so much to see and do there in the afternoon or morning; a boat tour is the best way to extend your trip to a whole day. 

Take a 2-hour pontoon boat tour with a departure point at the historic hotel, the Lakeside Inn. Enjoy your leisurely cruise around Lake Dora and The Harris Chain of Lakes, including the famed Dora Canal.

The all-weather 25’ boats can cruise rain or shine thanks to their retractable clear covers for the sides of the boat. Choose from one of two daytime tours, or their third option to cruise during sunset. 

Clearwater Beach with Dolphin Encounter Cruise

This 12-hour full-day tour begins with pick-up at 7:30 am. You’ll head west of Orlando to the popular Florida destination (Clearwater Beach), where you will take a cruise to encounter bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat. 

While this means that you aren’t guaranteed to spot dolphins, your tour guide will do his or her very best to find them. You may see these beautiful mammals up close by the boat or further in the distance if they appear in the ocean. Part of the fun is the anticipation. 

A one-hour dolphin tour boat ride is sandwiched between hours of free time on a Gulf Coast beach. For only $10 more, you can purchase a wristband for the boat ride that allows you to have unlimited beer, wine, and vodka punch. 

Pickup and drop off are included at one of three major locations of your choice (Disney areas included). This means that all you have to do is sign up for the tour and be at that location for pick-up time. 

Choose from the three pick-up locations listed below:

• Walt Disney World area, on Epcot Resorts Blvd. (northern area of the parks) 
• Walt Disney World area, at Maingate Lakeside Resort in Kissimmee (area of the Disney World theme parks that is further south) 
• International Drive (close to Universal) at Senor Frogs

Clear Canoe Boat Tour Near Orlando at Silver Springs

This clear canoe boat tour is approximately halfway between Orlando and Gainesville at Silver Springs. The drive is approximately an hour and 45 minutes from downtown Orlando. 

You’ll do a self-guided tour after the kayak company representative meets you and gives you a laminated map and some brief instructions. Paddle near Cypress Trees and see turtles, ducks, birds, and a chance to see manatees during the winter season, when they swim to Florida’s warm waters.

Dan and I often like to explore an area freely, on our own. Maybe you’re the same way! If so, this is a great tour for you in the Orlando area, as long as you can rent a car to get to the meeting point or take a taxi/Uber or Lyft there. 

Orlando Boat Tours at Walt Disney World

Did you know that you can rent motorized boats at Disney World? It’s one of the best things to do at Walt Disney World, besides the parks. 

Rent a Sun Tracker® Pontoon boat by the half-hour for up to 10 people. You can also opt to kayak or canoe from Fort Wilderness by the hour. 

One of the most singular boat tours in Orlando, or perhaps anywhere, is an Amphicar boat tour. Be a passenger and the envy of all onlookers in a cool convertible car that drives right into the water. This experience is available at Disney Springs restaurant, The Boathouse.

Lastly, you can book a specialty cruise to see the fireworks. You don’t even have to be a hotel guest to do so! Snacks and soft drinks are included in a memorable cruise on a 25’ boat. 

You can also request ​​for a festive banner and/or balloons to be set up on the boat, which is included in the cost (request at the time of booking). It’s a great thing to do for you and your partner or up to 10 guests total, whether a proposal, anniversary treat, or family reunion. 

What to Bring for Orlando Boat Tours

Florida's heat can be brutal, depending on the time of year. No matter the month, you definitely need to protect your skin from the sun. The sun in FL is strong, year-round. 

Be sure to pack the following if you’ll be on the water in sunny Florida: 

• Refillable water bottle (the ice will stay intact for hours in the MiiR bottle, our favorite insulated wide-mouth bottle) 
• Reef-safe sunscreen
• SPF lip balm
• Eco-friendly bathing suit 
• Rash guard 

Conclusion for Best Orlando Boat Tours

Whether you want to captain a boat yourself, row your way through Florida’s waters in a kayak, see gators on an educational airboat ride, or go on a romantic sailboat cruise around one of Central Florida’s lakes, an Orlando boat is a wonderful Florida activity. 

It will connect you with nature, get you out in fresh air, and allow your body to absorb vitamin D in the Florida sunshine. Sign up for an Orlando boat tour and explore this southern state in a unique and adventurous way. 

Read this next:

• 40 Awesome Things Florida is Known For
• 30 Things to Do at Walt Disney World Besides the Parks
• Kennedy Space Center Tickets: Helpful Info for a Successful Visit

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